Synonym(s): 2-Amino-2-(hydroxymethyl)-1,3-propanediol, THAM, Tris base, Tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane, Trometamol

Description

Tris buffer is not only widely used as a solvent for nucleic acids and proteins, but also has many other important applications. Tris is used for protein crystal growth under different pH conditions. [3] The low ionic strength characteristic of Tris buffer can be applied to the formation of intermediate filaments of lamin (a nuclear lamina protein) in C. elegans. [4] Tris is also one of the main components of protein electrophoresis buffers. In addition, Tris is an intermediate in the preparation of surfactants, vulcanization accelerators, and some drugs. Tris is also used as a titration standard.

Specifications

Item	Value
Chemical Name	Tris(hydroxymethyl)aminomethane
Appearance	White Crystal
CAS No.	77-86-1
Molecular Formula	C₄H₁₁NO₃
Molecular Weight	121.14
Grade	Biochemical Grade
Purity	≥99.9%
Melting Point	168-171°C
Water Insoluble Substances	≤0.03%
Residue on Strong Heating	≤0.05%
Heavy Metals	≤5ppm
Moisture	≤0.2%
pH	10.0-10.8 pH Unit
Color Grade	5#
UV Absorbance at 260nm	≤0.1Abs unit
Iron	≤2ppm
Chlorides	≤3ppm
Storage / Handling	Store at Room Temperature.

Features

Ultra-high purity (≥99.9%) biochemical grade ensuring consistent performance in sensitive molecular biology, biochemistry, and analytical applications.
Strong and stable buffering capacity with a pKa near 8.1 at 25 °C, providing reliable pH control within the biologically relevant range (pH 7.0–9.0).
Excellent solubility and easy preparation, allowing quick dissolution in water and straightforward pH adjustment using HCl or base.
Low ionic strength and biomolecule-compatible, minimizing interference with nucleic acids and proteins and supporting structural integrity in various assays.
Broad chemical versatility, serving not only as a core laboratory buffer component but also as an intermediate in the synthesis of surfactants, vulcanization accelerators, and pharmaceutical-related chemicals.
High stability and low impurity profile, featuring extremely low heavy metals, minimal insoluble matter, and reduced UV absorbance for cleaner biochemical reactions.

Applications

Nucleic acid and protein buffers

Widely used as a primary buffering component in DNA/RNA extraction buffers, protein solubilization solutions, sample storage buffers, and general molecular biology reagents.
Electrophoresis and blotting

A key component of commonly used electrophoresis systems such as Tris-Glycine, Tris-HCl, TAE, and TBE buffers, providing stable pH and consistent migration for both nucleic acids and proteins.
Protein crystallization and structural biology

Suitable for protein crystal growth across a broad pH range, offering stable chemical conditions for structural studies and biophysical assays.
Cell culture and biochemical reactions

Maintains near-physiological pH in enzyme assays, metabolic studies, cell-free systems, and other biochemical workflows requiring gentle buffering conditions.
Analytical chemistry and titration

Frequently used as a titration standard due to its well-defined purity and stable acid–base characteristics.
Chemical and industrial synthesis

Functions as an intermediate or precursor in the production of surfactants, rubber vulcanization additives, and certain pharmaceutical intermediates.

Safety Disclaimer

This product is intended for laboratory research use only. Not for drug, human, or veterinary use. Review the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provided by BioFargo for detailed handling, storage, hazard, and disposal information. Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, lab coat, and eye protection when handling. Dispose of waste and residual buffer in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations. Ensure proper ventilation if preparing large volumes or heating solutions.

Documents

SDS

COA

Protocol

TRIS 99.9% Biochemical Grade